Not criticisms of FWBC but desired priorities

The accusations of Leigh Johns, chief executive of Fair Work Building and Construction (Fair Work Building untruths must stop, AFR October 24), that the Australian Industry Group (Ai Group) has made erroneous assertions and peddled incorrect information about the FWBC are incorrect and unfair.

Ai Group has always been very supportive of (FWBC forerunner) the ABCC and we remain very supportive of FWBC. The Ai Group submission to which Mr Johns has taken offence states:

“FWBC needs to stay focused on the issues that the ABCC was set up to address. FWBC needs to be highly visible on construction sites. When unlawful strike action or coercion is threatened, FWBC needs to be on the spot without delay. Employers need to have confidence that FWBC will act quickly and decisively and that they will be protected from union coercion when they report issues. Those who choose to break the law need to understand that they will be caught and punished.”

Fairly considered, the statements in our submission are not criticisms of FWBC but an identification of priorities for the new regulator which began operations on June 1.

As a major representative of construction industry employers we have a strong and legitimate interest in expressing views about the laws which govern FWBC’s role and powers. In our view, the legislative amendments made on June 1 this year will reduce the effectiveness of the regulator.

Industry supports the strong and appropriate action taken by FWBC in relation to the Grocon dispute. Mr Johns has given his commitment that we can expect similar swift and decisive action in the future when unlawful coercion and industrial action occur. This is very welcome.